India has officially entered the ranks of Asia’s major powers, securing third place in the 2025 edition of the Asia Power Index, released by Australian think tank the Lowy Institute. With a comprehensive power score exceeding 40 points—the threshold for “major power” status—India now stands behind only China and the United States in the regional power hierarchy.
This marks the second consecutive year India has maintained the third position, having overtaken Japan in 2024. Analysts note that while India’s hard power capabilities are steadily rising, the gap with China remains significant, highlighting challenges in achieving a multipolar regional balance.
Economic and Military Gains
India’s economic strength showed robust growth, with a strong GDP trajectory and rising international investment inflows. The country overtook China as the second-most attractive destination for foreign investment after the US, reflecting global supply chain diversification and India’s growing appeal as an investment hub. Its economic capability ranking rose to third place, surpassing Japan, while its economic relationship score improved for the first time since the index’s 2018 inception.
On the military front, India’s capabilities improved moderately, buoyed by expert assessments and operational experience gained during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. However, India’s ranking in defence networks—a measure of military partnerships and alliances—dropped to 11th place, behind countries like the Philippines and Thailand.
Influence and Soft Power
Despite advances in hard power, India’s regional and global influence remains constrained. Diplomatic and defence ties have not fully leveraged the country’s growing resources, resulting in a widening power gap score. Modest gains in diplomatic influence were noted, supported by continuity in foreign policy and expanded dialogues. Cultural influence rose due to increased tourism, people-to-people exchanges, and new flight routes, including a notable India–Brunei connection.
Overall Assessment
The Asia Power Index highlights India as a rising yet restrained power: a nation expanding its capabilities but still working to translate them into greater regional and global influence. The 2025 report also underscores broader regional trends, including a weakening US position, China’s growing strategic advantage, and Russia’s resurgence in Asia.
